Jordan book qualification ticket to China 2018 AFC U23 Championship

The U23 National Team successfully booked a place in the AFC U23 Championship 2018 in China following a 2-0 victory over Tajikistan in the match that was held at the Dura Stadium in Palestine, in the final round of the qualifiers on Sunday, July 23.

Jordan’s surprising 3-2 defeat to Palestine in the second round meant that the Nashama must win against Tajikistan in order to qualify as either group leaders, given that Palestine lose against Bangladesh, or as one of the 6 best second place holders from the 10 groups. Palestine however, topped the group with 9 points after beating Bangladesh 3-0 later on Sunday.

Despite creating numerous chances in the first half, the score finished goalless at halftime until Ahmad Al Reyahi broke the deadlock and scored the opener in the 54th minute, before Bahaa Faisal doubled the lead in the 68th minute.

Head coach Iain Brunkill said after the game: “Of course we are happy with the result, specially that we have secured a place at the AFC U23 Championship in China.”

“This wasn’t our best performance during the qualifiers! I think we played better against Palestine and Bangladesh, but nonetheless, we have achieved a result that secured our qualification spot and we should be happy with that.”

“I want the thank the players for the great efforts, and I want to thank all the staff and all the support that we got from the Jordan Football Association.”

I think it will be great, and I think its going to happen, that Jordan and Palestine will both be going to China, which will be fantastic.” He concluded.